Graduate Semester Abroad Programs

SIS graduate semester abroad programs provide current students with the unique opportunity to earn AU credit while studying at a partner institution. Students spend one semester taking courses alongside their international counterparts and are fully integrated in student life at the host campus. Students who attend these programs find that the coursework and research done abroad complements their AU degrees and enriches their knowledge in a regional or functional concentration.

All programs operate out of the SIS Office of International Program Development. For more information, contact sisabroad@american.edu.

How the programs work:

Students register for AU/SIS exchange credit for the semester in which they will be studying at the partner institution. These exchange credits typically cover coursework only; research and/or internship credit will be registered under normal AU guidelines.

Students pay AU tuition and fees.This allows them to apply their financial aid packages to their semester abroad.As semester programs are designed for the independent graduate student, additional program fees do not apply.

Students pay limited fees to the partner institution.These fees can include welcome program, state-mandated insurance, and activities fees.

Students are responsible for their own accommodation, airfare, ground transportation, school supplies, and other personal living expenses while at the partner institution.

Eligibility requirements:

Current status as an AU graduate student. Programs are open to all graduate students from any AU school or college.

Approved plan of study.Students must meet with their academic advisors to get approval for the courses they plan to take prior to departure.

How to apply:

Application deadlines vary according to program. All application materials are received and processed by SIS; students may not apply directly to the partner institutions.

Students should attend an info session for the specific program they are interested in and/or meet with the SIS Office of International Program Development to receive program-specific application materials.

Most applications consist of a general application form and affidavit, a personal essay, AU transcript, résumé or C.V., and an academic advisor approval form.Some applications will also require GRE scores, official undergraduate transcripts, an application fee, and letters of recommendation.

Once accepted:

Students will work with the partner institution to register for classes, find housing, and enroll in welcome programs.

Students will be required to attend a pre-departure orientation at SIS prior to attending the host institution. Program details, cross-cultural communication, safety and health concerns, and other important issues will be covered at the orientation.

Students will need to submit a Consent and Release Form, Emergency Contact Form, flight itinerary, proof of insurance, and a legible copy of their passport picture/number page at the orientation.

Students will be required to purchase supplemental international emergency health insurance through the university. The cost of coverage per semester is approximately $136.